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Initial British negotiating position
26. The people of Hong Kong would have expected nothing less from us than that we should have explored every possibility before concluding that it would not be realistic to think of
an agreement that provided for continued British Administration
in Hong Kong after 1997.
Transitional period up to 1997.
27.
We shall continue to fulfil our responsibilities in the
period up to 1997. We shall continue to provide the framework
within which the Hong Kong government can administer the
territory and plan for its future.
Joint Liasion Group.
28.
Substance of our discussions with Chinese must remain
confidential. But we are aware of concerns of Hong Kong people
relating to the period up to 1997. I can reaffirm intention of
of HMG to maintain responsibility for the administration of Hong Kong up to that date.
Admission to UK: Present immigration position of British
Dependent Territories citizens
29.
Hong Kong British Dependent Territories Citizens (BDTCS)
have the right of abode in Hong Kong. They are subject to our
immigration control and do not have the right to abode in the
United Kingdom. If a BDTC wished to come and settle in the
United Kingdom he would have to qualify under an appropriate category in the immigration rules approved by Parliament.
There is provision in the current rules for certain categories
of dependents of persons already in the United Kingdom to be
admitted for settlement. There is also provision for people
who can meet certain requirements to enter for employment or
as businessment or as persons of independent means.
Present Nationality position of British dependent territories
citizens.
30.
Under the British Nationality Act 1981 BDTCS who have been
ordinarily resident in the UK for 5 years have an entitlement
to registration as British Citizens. The Home Secretary has
discretion to register as British Citizens BDTCS who have been
in crown service under the government of a dependent territory
(eg Hong Kong) or members pf a statutory body appointed by or on
behalf of the crown if he thinks fit in the special circumstances
of the applicant's case.